Firearms Permit Types

Massachusetts has 2 types of firearms permits.They are divided ​into two types, either ​Licenses to Carry or Identification Cards.​LTC's are "May Issue" and FID's are now "May Issue".

So, you've decided to get your Gun Permit or are at least contemplating the idea.

If you're like most people you're a little confused about the whole process. LTC or FID, what's the difference? What are my chances of getting one, and which one do I need?

Massachusetts has 2 types of permits, either a "license to carry" or a "firearms identification". LTC's are "May Issue" and FID's are now "May Issue". What this means to you is this: If applying for a LTC the licensing authority "may issue" the LTC and/or restrict it for a specific purpose - at the licensing authorities discretion.

Let's start off by explaining the different license types and what each one allows - and doesn't allow:

License To Carry (LTC)

Must be 21 Years of Age

Large Capacity Handguns

Large Capacity Rifles & Shotguns

Allows Concealed Carry (loaded or unloaded)

Firearms ID Card (FID)

Must be 18 Years of Age (15 with Parental Permission)

Non-Large Capacity Rifles & Shotguns

Does NOT allow the Concealed Carry OR Possession of Handguns

Massachusetts defines "Large Capacity" as any Handgun or Rifle capable of holding more than 10 rounds. .22 caliber rifles with tubular magazines are exempt. A "Large Capacity" Shotgun is any shotgun capable of holding more than 5 rounds. (See MGL Ch140 Sec121)

While a LTC allows "Large Capacity" firearms, the sale or possession of new "large capacity" firearms and feeding devices, i.e. magazines, is restricted to Military and Law Enforcement Only!